He sighed from the depth of his spirit.
Mark 8:12
Reflection
The Pharisees argue with Jesus, asking for a sign from heaven. He asks in return why their generation seeks a sign, and tells them no sign will be given. After this, he leaves on a boat to another shore.
Jesus “sighed from the depth of his spirit.” This is a beautiful, yet somewhat forlorn line to meditate on. We can imagine Jesus sighing in disappointment and perhaps sadness at the Pharisees, who do not believe him. One can imagine Jesus sighing at the state of the world today. But there is something deeper that we can meditate on – Jesus sighing at the state of our heart and soul.
Jesus loves us infinitely, and yet we separate ourselves from him daily by sinning. Sometimes our faith is not what is should be and our hearts are in the wrong place. As Lent approaches, we can take the time to reflect on our spiritual life and relationship with Jesus. How can we relieve some of Jesus’ suffering and turn to him fully, determined to be more faithful and loving?
Saint of the Day
St. Gilbert of Sempringham: 1085 – 1189
| St. Gilbert was an English priest who founded the Gilbertines, a religious order that ended when King Henry VIII broke from the Catholic Church. Although originally wealthy, he lived in poverty and shared much with the poor. St. Gilbert, pray for us! |
The Healing Word 